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What is it? Blepharoplasty (BLEF-uh-ro-plas-te)
is surgery to repair droopy eyelids by
removing excess skin, muscle and fat. As you
age, your eyelids stretch, and the muscles
supporting them weaken. As a result, excess
fat may gather above and below your eyelids,
causing sagging eyebrows, drooping upper
lids and bags under your eyes. Sagging of
the skin around your eyes can impair your
vision. Blepharoplasty can reduce or
eliminate such impaired vision.
SURGERY: Blepharoplasty is usually
done on an outpatient basis. As with any
surgery, blepharoplasty carries some risks,
such as infection or reaction to anesthesia.
Other possible risks specific to this
surgery include; Temporary numbness of the
eyelid, dry skin, irritated eyes, temporary
vision changes, such as double vision,
scarring, a very small risk of blindness due
to bleeding behind the eye.
BEFORE SURGERY CARE:
1. Stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil,
Motrin, others) and other nonsteroidal
antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as well as
herbal supplements associated with increased
bleeding. It's best not to use these
medications and supplements for two (2)
weeks before and after surgery. Take only
medications approved or prescribed by your
surgeon.
2. Avoid exposing your skin to excess
sunlight for one week before surgery and two
to three (2-3) months after surgery.
3. Arrange for someone to drive you to and
from surgery if you're having outpatient
surgery. Plan to have someone stay with you
for the first night after surgery.
AFTER SURGERY CARE:
After blepharoplasty a lubricating ointment
will be applied to protect your eyes and
prevent dryness. The ointment often may
cause temporary blurred vision. You may also
experience excessive tearing, light
sensitivity and double vision just after the
surgery. Your incisions will be red and
visible at first, and your eyelids may be
puffy and feel numb for several days.
Swelling and bruising, similar to having
"black eyes," will likely last a week or
more.
WOUND CARE: Ice packs or cold
compresses applied to your eyes can help
reduce swelling. If stitches were used,
they'll be removed in three or four days.
PAIN: Is usually minimal. You may be
given a pain reliever, such as
acetaminophen, for mild discomfort, but
remember to avoid aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil,
Motrin, etc.), other NSAIDs and herbal
supplements that may increase bleeding.
Take the following precautions for a week
after the surgery, unless advised otherwise
by your doctor:
• Don't lift anything weighing more than 20
pounds (9 kilograms).
• Avoid swimming.
• Avoid strenuous activities, such as
aerobics and jogging.
• Sleep with your head raised higher than
your chest.
• Follow your doctor's instructions for
cleaning your eyes and using eyedrops.
• Seek medical attention immediately if you
experience shortness of breath, chest pains,
an
unusual heart rate, new pain, bleeding or
visual disturbance. |
